2001 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
Price Estimate: $891 - $1,518
View 13 more photosPrice & Payment
Changing year will take you to a new page
Average price: $10,754
$
to$
Price
GMC Sierra 1500 model years
GMC Sierra 1500 types
- Extended Cab
- Regular Cab
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful V8-engine selections, handsome styling, comfy cabins.
Cons
- Spotty interior fit-and-finish concerns, premium brand carries a premium price.
What’s new
Reliability improvements for all Vortec V6 and V8 engines top the list of changes this year. Consequently, oil-change intervals have been extended to 7,500 miles. A traction assist feature is now available on two-wheel-drive V8 automatics, thanks to a new electronic throttle control system. Factory-installed OnStar, GM's mobile communications and security system, has been made standard with the SLT trim level. New this year is a 325-horse, all-wheel-drive performance version called the C3.
Edmunds says
If you want power, the Sierra's got it. But if high-quality materials and solid build quality are also a priority, you might want to check the offerings from Ford and Toyota, as well.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
24 listings
- 119,267 miles
- Insurance loss reported, 1 owner, personal use only
- 8'2” bed, 5.3l, 8cyl
- Robin Drive Auto (107 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Power Driver Seat
- Upgraded Engine
- Alarm
- Towing Hitch
Close
Located in Bear, DE
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GTEK14T21E119151
Stock: 119151
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-08-2024- 101,005 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 6'7” bed, 4.8l, 8cyl
- Poole Automotive (319 mi away)
- Alarm
- 6ft Bed
- Standard Cab
Close
Located in Laurinburg, NC
2001 GMC SIERRA 1500 SLE 2 DOOR STANDARD CAB 2WD STEPSIDE SHORTBED TRUCK FEATURES A 4.8L V8 GASOLINE ENGINE WITH 4 SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.AIR CO...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
16 Combined MPG (14 City/19 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GTEC14V91Z119929
Stock: 119929
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-09-2026
Vehicle overview
After a much-improved Sierra bowed in 1999, GMC's full-size pickup continues along the refinement trail for 2001. The Sierra 1500 (half-ton) employs a unique, three-piece frame construction. While it shares a platform and componentry with Chevrolet's Silverado, the Sierra gets some styling and feature enhancements to position the GMC as a "professional grade" truck.
Looks and special content aside, the biggest draw for GMC's half-ton pickup is a first-class engine lineup. The base 200-horse, Vortec 4.3-liter V6 has been upgraded again this year to improve durability, emissions and fuel economy. But more impressive are the two available V8s, all of which have seen further refinements to reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and increase service life. The Vortec 4.8-liter V8 (with 270 horses/285 foot-pounds of torque) is standard on half-ton extended cabs, and a 5.3-liter V8 (with 285/325) is optional on all 1500s. Both enjoy a flat torque curve for sustained hauling power.
Each version is available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. As usual, there is a variety of configurations to choose from, including the regular (two-door) or extended (four-door) cabs, short (6.5-foot) or long (8-foot) beds, Wideside or Sportside box designs, and rear- or four-wheel-drive versions. What's more, there are three trim levels (SL, SLE or SLT) and a dizzying array of options and packages to custom equip your truck exactly the way you want it.
Do you go off-roading? Choose the Z71 Off-Road Suspension package. Prefer to pick your own suspension settings? Try the ZX3 Manual Select Damping package. Plan to do a lot of towing? Go for the Z82 Heavy Duty Trailering Equipment package. Got heavy loads to haul? Opt for the Z85 Increased Capacity package. Like performance? Order the new C3, a sporty, high-end AWD model that's available only as an extended cab and built as a more practical alternative to Ford's supercharged SVT F-150 Lightning. The Sierra 1500's roomy interior offers ample storage space, including a center armrest that is large enough for a laptop computer or a six-pack of soda, depending on your priorities. Reduced-force airbags (with passenger-side on/off switch) are standard, plus a full complement of safety and convenience features too numerous to list here. Overall, Sierra is very competitive with the top Ford and Dodge offerings. But because GMC is now defining itself as the "professional grade" division for more demanding truck buyers, watch for price creep to start forcing less-affluent young cowboy types to look elsewhere.
Advertisement
Build Your 2026 Sierra 1500 Denali

- 6 Colors
- 1 Trim
- 5 Packages
- $65,900starting MSRP

Build & Buy GMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 earns significant praise for its robust engine performance, particularly the Vortec 5.3L V8, which owners describe as remarkably powerful and reliable. Many highlight its enduring mechanical integrity, with reports of original engines running smoothly even after high mileage. Owners appreciate the commendable fuel economy this truck offers, achieving around 20 mpg, which is especially noteworthy for a vehicle of its size and capability. The Sierra's towing performance is another admired trait, with drivers finding it handles substantial loads without difficulty, even in challenging conditions like mountainous terrains. The ride quality garners positive feedback, with comfort levels considered high, aided by features like large, supportive seats and a simple yet effective cruise control system. Enthusiasts find joy in customizing their trucks, benefiting from the abundant aftermarket parts available, allowing for personalization that enhances both the truck's utility and aesthetics. These traits collectively bolster the Sierra 1500's reputation as a dependable and versatile vehicle, capable of catering to both everyday needs and leisure pursuits.
Common Issues
The 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 is often critiqued for its recurrent brake issues, with several owners experiencing persistent brake light warnings and frequent brake maintenance needs. Some report frustration with the truck's fuel and brake line rust, a problem that seems exacerbated in regions prone to road salt or high humidity. Additionally, the Sierra's transmission has been a point of concern, with instances of failure reported at approximately 150,000 miles, requiring costly replacements. Electrical glitches, such as erratic gas gauge readings and mysterious steering noise, also detract from the ownership experience, leading to inconvenient troubleshooting sessions. Seat belt comfort is another specific grievance, as the seat belts seem poorly designed for long-term comfort, especially during extended drives. Some owners note that the vehicle's electrical system can be hard on the battery, particularly when using features like heated seats. Despite its many attributes, these issues underscore the importance of consistent, attentive maintenance to mitigate potential inconveniences and expenses over time.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 generally earns a reliable reputation among its owners, many of whom express satisfaction with its long-term dependability. Everyday drivers are often impressed with how the truck delivers a stable and smooth ride whether on daily commutes or cross-country journeys. There's a level of trust built over the years, as highlighted by how some owners still prefer taking the Sierra for travel over newer vehicles sitting in the garage. The sturdy build of the truck provides reassurance, with several drivers pointing out that the body remains solid despite the vehicle's age and mileage. While mechanical hiccups do occur, such as transmission concerns or brake issues, these are often perceived as manageable with regular maintenance. For those who value robust engine performance, the Vortec engines' longevity remains a standout feature over years of ownership. Despite some quirks, the Sierra 1500 continues to serve as a trusted companion in both work and leisure, seamlessly blending utility and comfort for many owners, especially those who maintain and treasure it.
Advertisement


2026 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Pro
Starting MSRP$65,900
See All Trims
GMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
Reliability
The 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
5 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 07E106000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 130000
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL REPLACEMENT WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLIES WITH THE BRAND NAMES: NATIONAL, CARQUEST P/NOS. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, AND 515060, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 23, 2006, AND DECEMBER 20, 2007, SOLD FOR LIGHT DUTY AND MEDIUM DUTY TRUCKS. THE INBOARD RETENTION NUT USED TO MAINTAIN HUB BEARING ASSEMBLY CAN LOOSEN RESULTING IN AN ABS LIGHT INDICATION, NOISE, AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION.
- Defect Consequence:
- WHEEL SEPARATION CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE HUB ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 7, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL TOLL-FREE AT 877-489-6659.
- Recall Number:
- 06E050000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 6800
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL NATIONAL AND CARQUEST AFTERMARKET HUB ASSEMBLIES, P/N 515058, SOLD FOR USE ON 2001-2006 GENERAL MOTORS 1500 AND 2500 4WD TRUCKS. ON THE SUBJECT HUB ASSEMBLIES, THE ABS SENSOR CORD DEPARTS FROM THE HUB ASSEMBLY AT A 90 DEGREE ANGLE. AS A RESULT, THERE IS A FIT ISSUE WITH THE BRAKE ROTOR DUST SHIELD INTERFERING WITH THE ABS SENSOR CORD. IF THE HUB ASSEMBLY IS INSTALLED DESPITE THIS INTERFERENCE, THE GAP BETWEEN THE ABS SENSOR AND THE TONE WHEEL MAY BE ALTERED. THIS MAY WEAKEN THE OUTPUT OF THE ABS SENSOR. DIMINISHED OUTPUT COULD RESULT IN AN UNWANTED ABS ACTIVATION AT LOW SPEEDS AND STOPPING DISTANCE COULD BE AFFECTED.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF STOPPING DISTANCE IS LIMITED, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY ITS OWNERS AND WILL EITHER CREDIT THE CUSTOMERS ACCOUNT OR REPLACE THE UNIT. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-563-8507 EXT 3530.
- Recall Number:
- 06E043000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 88303
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Recall Number:
- 04V562000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 04E-058
- Manufactured from:
- 1997-01-01 to 2004-08-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1660
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VANS EQUIPPED WITH SURE-LOK WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT SYSTEMS, THE SPROCKET TEETH OF THE RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY IS OUT OF ALIGNMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE WHEELCHAIR MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY SECURED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES TO A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT RETRACTORS AS NECESSARY. SURE-LOK WILL HANDLE THE REPAIRS FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SURE-LOCK AT 1-908-231-1804 OR MOBILITYWORKS AT 1-800-769-8267.
- Recall Number:
- 01V125000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 01021
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-11-01 to 2001-01-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 77485
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN 2-WHEEL DRIVE PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS." THE PROBLEM WAS CAUSED BY A COMPUTER ERROR THAT RESULTED IN THE CERTIFICATION LABEL LISTING TIRE SIZE AND INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION THAT DIFFER FROM THE TIRE SIZE AND THE INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION FOR THE TIRES ON THE VEHICLE. IF THE VEHICLE OWNER OR SOMEONE SERVICING THE VEHICLE INFLATES THE TIRES ACCORDING TO THE PRESSURE SPECIFIED ON THE LABEL VERSUS THE APPROPRIATE PRESSURE FOR THE TIRES, THE TIRES COULD BE UNDER-INFLATED OR OVER-INFLATED DEPENDING ON THE TIRES MOUNTED ON THE VEHICLE.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THE TIRES ARE UNDER-INFLATED, IT COULD REDUCE THE TREAD LIFE OF THE TIRE, AND THE TIRE COULD DEGRADE TO A POINT OF ALLOWING SUDDEN AIR LOSS. IF THE TIRES ARE OVER-INFLATED, IT COULD REDUCE THE TREAD LIFE OF THE TIRE AND INCREASE SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ROAD HAZARD DAMAGE. IF SUDDEN AIR LOSS OR A ROAD HAZARD CAUSES DAMAGE TO A TIRE, CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED AND COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A NEW LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. HOWEVER, A DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL IF THE OWNER SO DESIRES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 31, 2001. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(63%)
4(23%)
3(8%)
2(4%)
1(2%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
A real long term test
5 out of 5 starsmotorbones, 12/24/2013
2001 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab SLE 2WD SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
After 13 years and 252,000 miles, i think it's time a write a review. The engine is all original, and runs as good as the first day. The transmission failed after 150,000, but the new one is flawless. Aside for the normal consumables, I have had to replace one wheel bearing. That's it. That, and the fact that I have two rather expensive cars sitting in the garage, but my wife always … prefers the "truck" for it's comfort and ride quality.
I'm sure someone out there will beat me up on how much better they're doing with their Ram or Ford or Toyota, and I can't fault them... I don't know those trucks. But this truck doesn't show any signs that will give it up any time soon.
Thanks to Edmunds for the opportunity to provide my last review at 279,000 miles. My last because it's been passed along to a father who needed to haul his son to all the bike races around the state of California. At that time the truck was still flawless, and I was very confident it would soldier on for them.
2001 GMC 4x4 5.3 Z 71 SLE
4.5 out of 5 starsJoe D, 05/15/2003
2001 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab SLE 4WD LB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
Overall I've been fairly easy on this
truck but occasionally have hauled very
heavy loads. No problems.
The smooth ride was a surprise to me.
Engine performance is great. Milage is
ok if you take it easy, otherwise it
uses quite a bit. I think the interior
is nice (despite what Edmond's say).
It's a nice riding/functional truck.
Can't find anything wrong with this …
truck yet (in almost 2 years).
I love this truck
5 out of 5 starsdrgroth1, 02/10/2006
2001 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab SLE 2WD SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
I have driven this truck cross country several times, a few of these trips required towing another car behind. I went through Colorado and had no trouble keeping up with the rest of the traffic even though I was fully loaded and towing a loaded car behind me up the mountains. I have driven in snow in Minnesota and even though I do not have four wheel drive I did not have any problems, … I did have snow tires installed. I get 20mpg, which is great for a truck. I cannot say enough good about this vehicle.
dependable ride
4.75 out of 5 starsalphonse, 05/16/2009
2001 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab SLT 2WD SB w/OnStar (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
purchased new in 01,in 8 yrs the truck has had very few problems. passenger side seat belt tightens up on its own, & the interior light switch had a short.Oe tires had to be replaced at 35k, & the on star system is no longer compatible with the new digital system. fuel mileage averages about 17 in mixed driving, 20mpg is achievable on long highway travel.I would buy another gmc if we … wear this one out, brakes still have about 60% life left.
2001 Sierra 1500 Features & Specs
Extended Cab
SL
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $22,879 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $218/month |
| Seating | 6 seats |
rear wheel drive | |
| Max Towing Capacity | 9,000 lbs. |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sierra 1500 include:
- Alarm
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalMarginal
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
People who viewed this also viewed
| 4.8 average Rating out of 4 reviews. |
| Starting at $36,900 |
| 5.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
| Starting at $41,575 |
| 4.1 average Rating out of 7 reviews. |
| Starting at $41,260 |
Related Used 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Rolls Royce Ghost 2021 Review
- Kia Optima 2020 Review
- Mclaren GT 2021 Review
- Lincoln Navigator 2020 Review
- BMW X3 M 2020 Review
- BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe 2020 Review
- Ram 1500 Classic 2021 Review
Shop similar models
- Used GMC Canyon 2026
- Used Ford F-350-super-duty 2026
- Used Ford F-250-super-duty 2026
- Used Nissan Titan-xd 2024
- Used Toyota Tundra 2026
- Used Ford Ranger 2026
- Used Nissan Titan 2024
- Used Jeep Gladiator 2025
- Used Toyota Tacoma 2026
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
Research other models of GMC
- 2026 Sierra EV
- GMC Sierra 3500HD 2025
- 2025 Sierra 1500
- GMC Sierra 3500HD 2026
- New GMC Sierra 2500HD
- 2026 Sierra 1500
- 2026 GMC HUMMER EV
- New GMC Sierra 3500HD
- GMC Sierra 2500HD 2026
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Toyota Tacoma in Herriman, UT 2026
- Used Jeep Renegade in Edmond, OK 2024
- Used Nissan NV200 in Salisbury, NC 2021
- Used Cadillac Seville in Egg Harbor Township, NJ 2004
- Used Jaguar XJ in Skokie, IL 2019
- Used Lexus Ux in Christiansburg, VA 2025
- Used Ram 3500 in Oak Park, MI 2026
- Used GMC Sierra-2500Hd in Round Lake, IL 2026
- Used Acura RL in Medford, NY 2012
- Used GMC Acadia in Ankeny, IA 2026
- New BMW Xm-Label for Sale in Poway, CA
- New Mercedes-Benz Glc-Coupe for Sale in Marble Falls, TX
- New Volkswagen Atlas-Cross-Sport for Sale in Burleson, TX
- New Audi Sq6-E-Tron for Sale in Zanesville, OH
- New Volvo Ex30 for Sale in Lafayette, LA
- New Cadillac Escalade-Iql for Sale in Florence, KY
- New Ford Mustang for Sale in Oneida, NY
- New Hyundai Ioniq-9 for Sale in Dothan, AL

